521 



took an important and distinguished part ; and with his characteristic 

 and laudable energy and zeal in the cause of science, finding that 

 such an instrument was just now a desideratum, he undertook to 

 construct one at his own cost. This he has now completed. This 

 splendid result of the well-applied industry and skill of one to whom 

 Astronomical Science had been already indebted for two fine tele- 

 scopes, has an aperture of 4 feet and 37 feet focal length, and this 

 is also mounted equatorially. From this magnificent telescope, in 

 the hands of such a man, what may not be expected ? And it adds 

 not a little to his merit, that all the specula for these several instru- 

 ments have been cast by himself, and polished by a machine of his 

 own contrivance, of which he has given a lucid description in the 

 Memoirs of the Royal Astronomical Society ; and the instruments 

 themselves are mounted according to his own plans. 



In conclusion, it will I think be generally allowed, and posterity 

 will doubtless confirm the statement, that in the history of reflecting 

 telescopes, the name of Lassell must rank with that of Herschel and 

 that of our late President, Lord Rosse, whether we consider the 

 talent and perseverance displayed in their construction, or the im- 

 portant discoveries which have resulted from their use. 



MR. LASSELL, 



In presenting this Medal, allow me to express a fervent hope that 

 you may be endowed with health and a long life. Your previous 

 labours are the best security that in that case the magnificent 

 astronomical means now at your disposal will in due time contribute 

 still further to enlarge the bounds of that science which you love so 

 much and have so materially advanced. 



On the motion of Sir Henry Holland, seconded by Sir Roderick 

 Murchison, the best thanks of the Society were voted to the Presi- 

 dent for his excellent address, and his Lordship was requested to 

 permit the same to be printed. 



The Statutes relating to the election of Council and Officers having 

 been read, and Admiral FitzRoy and Mr. Huxley having been, with 

 the consent of the Society, nominated Scrutators, the votes of the 

 Fellows present were collected. 



